The Tier 1 General migrant allows you to settle in the United Kingdom if you have been in this category for five years. This is set out in the immigration rules at paragraph 245E of part 6A. You must be in this category on a continuous basis and not be absent from the United Kingdom more than the specified time.

Under the rules, to satisfy the five-year qualifying period for settlement under this category, you may include any periods of leave (permission to stay) under any of the following immigration categories that immediately precede your time here under the highly skilled worker category:

•  highly skilled worker (Tier 1 General);
• Highly Skilled Migrant Programme;  
• work permit holder;  
• innovator; 
• self-employed lawyer; or 
• writer, composer or artist.

The immigration rules are subject to change and you must meet the rules that are in place at the time that you apply for settlement.

Partners of highly skilled workers are eligible to apply for settlement at the same time as the highly skilled worker, provided they have lived with their partners in the United Kingdom for a minimum of two years before applying for settlement.

Children of highly skilled workers are eligible to apply for settlement at the same time as the highly skilled worker, provided the child meets the requirements of the immigration rules.